Podzemlje Pece

Podzemlje Pece, or the Underground of Peca, is one of Slovenia’s most extraordinary attractions, offering a blend of industrial heritage, adventure tourism, and geological wonder. The site is located beneath Mount Peca, near the town of Mežica in the Koroška region, and is built upon the extensive network of tunnels and chambers left behind by the Mežica lead and zinc mine. Mining in this area began in the 17th century and continued until 1994, making it one of the longest-operating mines in Slovenia. Over the centuries, miners carved out more than 800 kilometers of tunnels, creating a vast subterranean labyrinth that now serves as a unique setting for exploration and education.

The transformation of the mine into a tourist attraction has preserved not only the physical tunnels but also the stories and traditions of the mining community. The main entrance to Podzemlje Pece is through the original mining train, which transports visitors deep into the mountain, just as miners once traveled to their work sites. Guided tours lead guests through atmospheric passageways, past old mining equipment, mineral veins, and exhibits that detail the daily life of miners and the technological evolution of the industry. The museum above ground complements the underground experience with displays on geology, mineralogy, and local history.

What truly sets Podzemlje Pece apart are its adventure activities. Visitors can embark on an underground cycling tour, riding mountain bikes along specially prepared paths through the mine’s tunnels—a one-of-a-kind experience that combines physical activity with historical discovery. For those seeking even more excitement, the mine’s flooded lower levels offer guided kayaking tours, where participants paddle through crystal-clear waters in the darkness of the mountain’s depths. Both activities are suitable for beginners and are led by experienced guides, ensuring safety and providing fascinating insights into the mine’s past.

In addition to cycling and kayaking, traditional walking tours are available, allowing guests to explore the mine’s chambers and learn about the geology and mineral resources of the region. The site also hosts special events, educational programs for children, and workshops on mining heritage. The surrounding area of Mežica and Mount Peca offers further opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the scenic landscapes of Koroška.

Getting to Podzemlje Pece is straightforward by car from major Slovenian cities such as Ljubljana (about 2 hours) or Maribor (about 1.5 hours). Public transport options are available to Mežica, from where the mine is easily accessible. All underground activities require advance booking, and visitors should dress warmly, as temperatures in the mine remain cool year-round. Helmets, lights, and other necessary equipment are provided on site.

Seasonal advice: Podzemlje Pece is open year-round, with underground temperatures remaining constant regardless of the season. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the surrounding region is ideal for combining mine tours with outdoor activities. Summer is particularly popular for family visits and adventure tours, while winter offers a unique contrast between the snowy landscape above and the sheltered world below. Regardless of the season, Podzemlje Pece promises an unforgettable journey into Slovenia’s industrial and natural heritage.